Pelvic pain is a common issue that many women experience at some point in their lives, but it can range from mild and temporary discomfort to a sign of an underlying medical condition like endometriosis. Knowing the difference between normal pelvic pain and when to seek medical attention can help you take control of your health.
What is Considered Normal Pelvic Pain?
Mild to moderate pelvic pain is often linked to natural bodily functions and usually does not indicate a serious condition. Examples include:
- Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)
- Occurs just before or during your period
- Typically lasts 1-3 days
- Can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medications, heat therapy, or rest
- Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz)
- A sharp or dull pain on one side of the lower abdomen
- Occurs mid-cycle (around day 14 of a 28-day cycle)
- Usually mild and temporary
- Mild Gastrointestinal Discomfort
- Gas, bloating, or constipation can cause temporary pelvic pain
- Pain is usually relieved after a bowel movement
When is Pelvic Pain a Sign of Something More Serious?
If your pelvic pain is chronic, severe, or interferes with daily activities, it may be caused by an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain, but other conditions can also be responsible.
Signs Your Pelvic Pain May Be Due to Endometriosis or Another Serious Condition
- Pain that Lasts Beyond Your Period
- Normal menstrual cramps last only a few days, but endometriosis-related pain can start before your period and continue after it ends.
- The pain may worsen over time instead of improving.
- Pain During or After Sex (Dyspareunia)
- Discomfort or sharp pain deep inside the pelvis during or after intercourse is a common symptom of endometriosis.
- Severe Menstrual Cramps That Do Not Respond to Medication
- If over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or naproxen) do not relieve your cramps, it may indicate an underlying condition like endometriosis or adenomyosis.
- Chronic Lower Back and Abdominal Pain
- Endometriosis can cause inflammation and irritation of surrounding tissues, leading to persistent lower back or pelvic pain.
- Painful Bowel Movements or Urination
- If you experience pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation around your period, endometriosis may be affecting your intestines.
- Pain while urinating, especially during menstruation, could indicate bladder endometriosis.
- Heavy or Irregular Periods
- Endometriosis and fibroids can cause prolonged periods (lasting more than 7 days) or very heavy bleeding (changing pads/tampons every 1-2 hours).
- Fertility Issues
- Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility because it can cause scar tissue and adhesions, making it difficult for the egg to implant in the uterus.
Other Serious Causes of Pelvic Pain
Besides endometriosis, other conditions can cause chronic pelvic pain, including:
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the reproductive organs, often caused by untreated STDs, leading to severe pain and fever.
- Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that may cause sharp pain if they rupture.
- Adenomyosis: A condition where endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing severe cramps and heavy periods.
- Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain and pressure.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should consult a gynecologist if you experience:
Pelvic pain that lasts more than 6 months
Pain that worsens over time or is interfering with daily life
Pain during sex, urination, or bowel movements
Severe menstrual cramps that do not improve with pain medication
Unexplained infertility
Finding the Right Specialist for Pelvic Pain in Korea
If you’re looking for an experienced gynecologist in Korea, Second Spring Women is a highly recommended clinic that specializes in endometriosis, pelvic pain, and women’s health conditions. Dr. Seon-Hwa Jeong (Profile) has extensive experience in treating endometriosis and offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including laparoscopic surgery.
If you’re concerned about your pelvic pain, don’t wait—getting an accurate diagnosis can help you find relief and protect your long-term health. Would you like recommendations on treatment options or lifestyle changes to manage symptoms?